Welcome to Rijeka, a vibrant port city on Croatia's stunning Kvarner Bay, offering a unique blend of grand Habsburg-era architecture and a lively, alternative cultural scene. As Croatia's third-largest city and a major maritime hub, it provides a more authentic and less crowded experience than other Adriatic destinations. Major lines like Viking Ocean Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Marella Cruises call here, drawn by its strategic location as a gateway to the beautiful islands and Istrian peninsula. Cruise travelers will find a city rich in history, bustling with cafes, and serving as the perfect starting point for diverse shore excursions.
The heart of the city is the Korzo, a wide, bustling promenade that is just steps from the port. This pedestrian-only street is lined with cafes, shops, and magnificent buildings, making it the perfect place for a stroll and to soak up the local atmosphere.
For the best views of the city and Kvarner Bay, a visit to Trsat Castle is a must. This medieval fortress perched on a hill above the city can be reached by a local bus or, for the more adventurous, by climbing the historic Petar Kružić Stairway with its 561 steps. The castle complex also includes the Shrine of Our Lady of Trsat, a major pilgrimage site.
Don't miss the vibrant Rijeka Central Market, housed in beautiful Art Nouveau pavilions near the waterfront. It's a feast for the senses, with fresh produce, seafood, and local cheeses. Nearby, you can find the unique, round-shaped St. Vitus Cathedral, an architectural curiosity and the city's main church.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
A popular and easy day trip is to the elegant resort town of Opatija, often called the 'Pearl of the Adriatic.' Known for its beautiful seaside promenade (Lungo Mare), grand villas, and lush parks, it's only a 20-30 minute drive from the port.
Another excellent option is exploring Krk Island, the largest island in the Adriatic, connected to the mainland by a bridge. Reachable in about 45-60 minutes, the island offers charming medieval towns like Krk and Vrbnik, beautiful beaches, and excellent local wine.
For a longer, full-day excursion often offered by cruise lines, a trip to the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park is unforgettable. Be aware that this natural wonder, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a significant journey, typically requiring about 2.5 hours of travel each way from Rijeka.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The cruise port in Rijeka is ideally situated directly in the heart of the city. Ships dock at the main passenger terminal along the long breakwater known as 'Molo Longo', placing you within immediate walking distance of the city center.
From the gangway, it's just a short walk of a few hundred meters to reach the Korzo, the main pedestrian promenade, and other key attractions. Because of this prime location, shuttle buses are generally not required or provided. The area immediately surrounding the port is filled with cafes, restaurants, and shops, allowing for easy exploration right upon arrival. Tendering is not typically used in Rijeka, as ships are able to dock directly.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
As of January 2023, the official currency in Croatia is the Euro (€). While some tourist-oriented shops may have accepted other currencies in the past, all transactions are now officially conducted in Euros. US Dollars are not widely accepted, so it is essential to have Euros for purchases.
ATMs (bankomat) are plentiful throughout the city center and are the easiest way to get cash. You can also exchange money at banks or dedicated exchange offices ('Mjenjačnica'). Credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it's always wise to carry some cash for smaller cafes, market stalls, or public transport.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Rijeka is generally considered a very safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate. Visitors can feel comfortable exploring the city center and main tourist areas independently, both day and night. The local population is typically friendly and welcoming to tourists.
As in any city, it's wise to practice standard safety precautions. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded places like the Korzo, public transport, or the central market to avoid pickpocketing. There are no specific areas that tourists need to avoid. Using common sense is sufficient to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Rijeka has a humid subtropical climate, with warm, sunny summers and mild, wet winters. The main cruise season from late spring to early autumn offers the most pleasant weather for visiting. Summers (June to August) are typically warm and sunny, with average daily temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), perfect for exploring the city and coast.
Spring and autumn are also great times to visit, with milder temperatures but a higher chance of rain, as Rijeka is one of Croatia's rainiest cities. It's always a good idea to pack a light rain jacket or an umbrella, especially if traveling during the shoulder seasons. The Adriatic does not experience a hurricane season, but a strong, cold wind known as the 'Bura' can occasionally blow, mainly in the winter months.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Rijeka's city center is compact and very walkable, with most major sights easily reachable on foot from the cruise terminal. For destinations further afield, the city has an efficient public bus system operated by Autotrolej. Bus tickets can be purchased at kiosks (tisak) or directly from the driver.
Taxis are readily available at a taxi stand near the port and throughout the city. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are also operational in Rijeka and can be a convenient option. For those wanting a structured overview, look for hop-on-hop-off tourist bus services which often operate when cruise ships are in port. Transportation is generally not required for exploring the downtown area but is recommended for visiting Trsat Castle or venturing to nearby towns.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The main shopping artery in Rijeka is the Korzo, a lively pedestrian street where you'll find a wide range of international brands, local boutiques, and shoe stores. For a more traditional experience, the Rijeka Central Market is the perfect place to find local delicacies like cheese, olive oil, honey, and fresh produce.
For unique Croatian souvenirs, look for items like handmade jewelry, lavender products, or a bottle of the local fruit brandy, 'rakija'. If you're looking for a modern shopping mall experience, the Tower Center Rijeka is a short taxi or bus ride from the port and features over 150 stores. Prices in shops are fixed, and bargaining is not a common practice.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
From Rijeka, boat excursions offer a stunning escape to the wild bays of the island of Krk, which are accessible only from the sea. You will discover pristine, hidden beaches perfect for swimming and snorkeling in the turquoise Adriatic. This tour provides a peaceful retreat into untouched nature, away from any crowds.
Your journey may continue to Plavnik, a protected and uninhabited island rich with wildlife. Look to the skies to spot magnificent griffon vultures soaring overhead as you anchor in a secluded bay. It’s a unique opportunity to experience raw nature and swim in tranquil, clear waters.
Tours often proceed to the south side of Krk, renowned for its dramatic coastal landscapes and beautiful pebble beaches. These stunning locations are nestled beneath steep cliffs, offering breathtaking views. This part of the trip provides another perfect stop for a refreshing swim in the azure sea.
Enjoy a relaxing half-day excursion to secluded bays to avoid the crowds, with more time for swimming and less time on the boat. A 40-minute panoramic ride along the Krk coast takes you to stunning spots like Golden Bay and Fox Bay, accessible only by sea. The tour includes one to three stops for swimming and snorkeling near beaches or caves, with a dinghy available to help you get ashore.
Embark on an 8-hour pirate ship adventure to Plavnik Island, where you can spot rare griffon vultures and explore a blue cave. Enjoy swimming breaks in the island's small bays and the Wild Bays of Krk, which are only accessible by boat. A delicious meal of fish, meat, or a vegetarian option is grilled right on the ship and served in the island's forest.
Escape mass tourism on a traditional boat to the most beautiful bays near Stara Baška for swimming and snorkeling in the perfectly clear sea. The tour then visits Plavnik, Croatia's second-largest uninhabited island, home to majestic griffon vultures. You'll have the chance to swim to a secret beach and the Love cave, and might even spot dolphins along the way.
Charter this small, well-equipped boat for a private family trip where you have complete freedom to design your own custom itinerary. You decide exactly where you want to go and what you want to do for the day. The 9-meter boat ensures a comfortable journey with onboard amenities including a toilet, running water, and a fridge.
Join a relaxing 3.5-hour public excursion designed to avoid crowded beaches, with more time dedicated to swimming and snorkeling. After a 40-minute panoramic boat ride from Punat, you'll reach the stunning bays near Stara Baška, accessible only by sea. The captain will select one to three of the best spots, like Golden Bay or nearby caves, for swimming stops.
Join a delightful Fish Picnic boat trip to the beautiful Smrdeća Bay for a day of relaxation and adventure. Discover the bay’s natural scenery and take the opportunity to swim in its crystal-clear waters. The experience is complete with a freshly prepared fish meal served right on board the boat.
Embark on a 5-hour pirate ship adventure to discover the hidden bays and unique rock formations of Krk Island's coastline. You'll explore famous spots like Golden Bay, with two comfortable one-hour stops for swimming, snorkeling, and snacking. Relax and embrace the Croatian "opušteno" lifestyle as the crew serves drinks and bruschettas on board.
Join an intimate, half-day boat trip for a maximum of 13 people to Plavnik, the largest uninhabited island in the Adriatic. Discover the island's natural attractions, including spotting rare griffon vultures, swimming into the "cave of love," and jumping from rocks. This tour focuses on avoiding crowds and maximizing water time with three stops totaling 2.5 hours for swimming.
Take a one-hour walking tour of an Immortelle farm, personally guided by one of its co-founders. You will learn about the distillation process, see the site of a historic Roman battle, and enjoy a beautiful view of the Krk bridge. The tour concludes with an opportunity to taste and purchase the farm's natural cosmetic products.
Hop aboard with captains Adorio & Dino to discover the wild bays and idyllic beaches lining the Krk island coastline. Leave the navigation to your capable crew and focus on the scenery, including stunning sea caves. You'll stop to swim at tucked-away coves inaccessible by land and learn about the coast as you cruise.
Take the worry out of your arrival by pre-booking a private transfer from Rijeka Airport (RJK). This service allows you to avoid long taxi lines and travel in the comfort of a private sedan or minivan. The transfer is suitable for groups of up to 8 people, ensuring a smooth start to your vacation.
Discover the secrets of olive oil production on this tour in Cres, where you'll visit a local mill and walk among century-old olive trees. Learn about the process, the health benefits of olive oil, and the history of the groves. The experience concludes with a tasting of the oil accompanied by a delicious local snack and refreshing drinks.
Explore the region's hidden ecological gems on a unique tour accompanied by a professional biologist. Your expert guide will lead you along trails to secluded areas that are off the beaten path. This is a perfect opportunity to uncover the secrets of the local ecosystem and its natural treasures.
Embark on a walking food tour through the old town of Cres to create the tastiest memories of your visit. Over the course of six different stops, you will sample regional specialties like assorted fish, local sausages, and an olive oil tasting with a producer. The tour's highlight is the famous Cres lamb, served as a delicious stew with homemade gnocchi.
For those seeking adventure, this 5.5-hour boat trip explores Plavnik, Croatia's second-largest uninhabited island. Discover the island's secret places, from hidden family beaches to natural attractions like the Love Cave. You'll see majestic vultures and enjoy three separate stops with a total of 2.5 hours for swimming.
Get ready for an unforgettable family adventure that combines a jeep ride, scenic walks, and an exhilarating zipline experience. The "canopy tour" features nine separate lines stretching over 2.4 kilometers, offering a two-hour ride of a lifetime. From the start, you’ll enjoy beautiful views overlooking southern Krk before your zipline journey begins.
Take a scenic cruise to the uninhabited bays of Krk, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax in untouched nature. As you cruise the rocky shoreline, keep an eye out for dancing dolphins or rare griffon vultures on the steep cliffs above. For an introduction to the underwater world, you can also join the "Try Scuba" program for a 15-minute dive with a qualified instructor.
Visit a family-owned winery in Krk for an intimate and authentic local experience. You will be given a personal tour of the cellar by the winemaker himself, who will share the secrets behind his craft. The tour concludes with a delicious tasting of the various wines produced on-site.
Experience the thrill of wakeboarding at Cable Krk, a 650-meter long cableway system suitable for both beginners and experts. The electric-powered system pulls you along at a steady 30-32 km/h for the perfect ride. Afterwards, relax at the on-site Beach Pub, which offers a full menu of food and drinks and a sun deck.
Explore the town of Krk, the oldest and largest administrative center on the island, with a history dating back to prehistoric times. Wander through the medieval street layout to discover hidden monuments, ancient towers, and charming seaside cottages at every turn. Key historical attractions include the town's cathedral and the remains of a Roman thermal spa.
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Prices are around equal throughout the year. On average Rijeka is rather affordable as a port of call. The chart below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises visiting Rijeka.
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